Because both Detroit Lions starting outside linebackers were pending unrestricted free agents, the game was to pick which one would stay.

DeAndre Levy was re-signed to a multi-year deal on Wednesday per the team web site. It's a three-year contract according to Albert Breer of the NFL Network.

Levy, a third-round pick in 2009, was one of 22 remaining Lions who could hit the open free agent market this weekend.

Where does this leave Durant? Not sure if the Lions can afford to keep both. Durant sent congratulations to Levy via Twitter.

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The Lions have signed linebacker Ashlee Palmer who has quietly been impressive on defense along with his special teams play.

Young linebackers Tahir Whitehead and Travis Lewis will be entering their second seasons.

Levy started 13 of the 14 games he played in 2012. He finished with 82 tackles, one interception and three pass defenses. In four seasons Levy has 50 starts in 57 games.

In comparison, in 2012 Durant was second on the team with 103 tackles with three pass defenses and half a sack. He played in all 16 games in 2012 and in 13 games for Detroit in 2011.

General manager Martin Mayhew told reporters at the Combine that he was targeting nine players who could hit the free agent market.

Levy is the second player who has signed. Earlier this week offensive tackle Corey Hilliard agreed to a new deal.

Key players still unsigned include Cliff Avril, Chris Houston and Louis Delmas. If not signed, they will hit the open market at 4 p.m. on Tuesday.

NFL free agency has changed this season. Teams will be allowed to talk to agents of free agents starting Saturday. They can talk to players and sign them at 4 p.m. Tuesday.

Fairley back to court

Nick Fairley's legal troubles are not behind him. A judge must decide if the agreement for him to enter a first-time DUI offender diversion program was legitimate.

If the judge rules no, Fairley must appear for a hearing in court in Mobile, Ala., on March 21. This was determined at a hearing on Wednesday, according to reporter Brendan Kirby of The Press-Register.

At that time the judge will decide whether to set a trial date or allow him to withdraw a guilty plea and send the case back to District Court, per Kirby.

If she agrees with Fairley's attorney, he will enter the program and charges would be dismissed if he completed the requirements.

Fairley was arrested twice last spring in Mobile near his home. The second time he was cited for reckless driving, no proof of insurance and an open container. The first time was for marijuana possession after complaints that he was speeding through a neighborhood. The marijuana charges have been dismissed.